Because his prime competition for the job, Max Browne was a high-profile recruit — he was Rivals.com’s No. 1 quarterback in the Class of 2013 — who could be in for a second consecutive season of inactivity, the “T” word came front and center when it came to Browne’s future with the Trojans. According to the player, however, that’s not an option for him — ever.

“I’m staying put,” Browne said when asked about a potential transfer. “I’m here for good.”

Sarkisian attempted to soften the sting of losing the battle, telling the media “I think Max is going to be a star.”

That’s all well and good in the here and now, but the future doesn’t look very promising for Browne at USC, at least as far as seeing the playing field goes. Including 2014, Kessler still has two years of eligibility remaining. As a redshirt sophomore last season and tasked with the responsibility of replacing longtime starter Matt Barkley, Kessler performed exceptionally well as he completed just over 65 percent of his passes for 20 touchdowns against just seven interceptions.

Nice to have a stable of top-rated QBs in the fold. Browne will get his chance sooner or later. I’m hoping Kessler remains injury-free, particularly since he has blossomed into a true field general, but Browne knows he has to be ready at a moment’s notice. Preparation for the next level is the focus, something of which he’s well aware.